Health Advice

Female Infertility: Causes, treatment and prevention

Published : Saturday, 12 August, 2017 at 12:00 AM Count : 157

Dr Sharmin SalamMBBS FCPS (obs-Gyn)Universal Medical Collage

Causes female infertilityThe most common causes of female infertility include problems with ovulation, damage to fallopian tubes or uterus, or problems with the cervix. Age can contribute to infertility because as a woman ages, her fertility naturally tends to decrease.Ovulation problems may be caused by one or more of the following:* A hormone imbalance* A tumor or cyst* Eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia* Alcohol or drug use* Thyroid gland problems* Excess weight* Stress* Intense exercise that causes a significant loss of body fat* Extremely brief menstrual cyclesDamage to the fallopian tubes or uterus can be caused by one or more of the following:* Pelvic inflammatory disease* A previous infection* Polyps in the uterus* Endometriosis or fibroids* Scar tissue or adhesions* Chronic medical illness* A previous ectopic (tubal) pregnancy* A birth defect* DES syndrome (The medication DES, given to women to prevent miscarriage or premature birth can result in fertility problems for their children.)Abnormal cervical mucus can also cause infertility. Abnormal cervical mucus can prevent the sperm from reaching the egg or make it more difficult for the sperm to penetrate the egg.Female infertility treatedFemale infertility is most often treated by one or more of the following methods:* Taking hormones to address a hormone * imbalance, endometriosis, or a short menstrual cycle* Taking medications to stimulate ovulation* Using supplements to enhance fertility - shop supplements* Taking antibiotics to remove an infection* Having minor surgery to remove blockage or scar tissues from the fallopian tubes, uterus, or pelvic area.There are several things that women can do to decrease the possibility of infertility:* Take steps to prevent sexually transmitted diseases* Avoid illicit drugs* Avoid heavy or frequent alcohol use* Adopt good personal hygiene and health practices* Have annual checkups with your GYN once you are sexually activeIt is important to contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms:* Abnormal bleeding* Abdominal pain* Fever* Unusual discharge* Pain or discomfort during intercourse* Soreness or itching in the vaginal area